TRENDING

Looking for the *perfect* nostalgic rewatch for summer? The Barbie movies have fashion, friendship and a little bit of magic that make them stand out in our childhood memories. Barbie has proven time and time again that she really can be anything and her roles in all 36 (yes, 36!) Barbie movies are unique in their own way. To help you pick which film to start your Barbie binge with we have a non-definitive ranking of *all* the Barbie movies. 

36. The Barbie Diaries (2005)

Although it's exciting to see Barbie as a high school student, this movie didn't really stand out to us as a Barbie movie our childhoods would be incomplete without. Not to mention, the animation style is totally different from the other Barbie movies, making The Barbie Diaries play seem more like a spinoff than an actual Barbie film. 

35. Barbie and her Sisters in a Puppy Chase (2016)

Although Barbie and her sisters traveled to a tropical island for Chelsea's dance competition, most of the movie is about a wild chase to rescue their pet puppies. Don't get us wrong—we *love* a good adventure moment, but this movie was just too fast-paced for our tastes. 

34. Barbie Thumbelina (2009)

There's something about this Thumbelina retelling that makes it *extra* magical. The twillerbee fairies' home is in danger of being bulldozed, and Thumbelina needs to convince Mckenna to help her save the environment. Although we can't deny that this movie's "go green" message is super important, it does lack that iconic Barbie feel. 

33. Barbie: Dolphin Magic (2017)

Our favorite boy-next-door Ken has scored an internship at a beach paradise, which already gives this movie automatic points. (More screentime for Ken please!) While it wasn't the *best* movie we've ever seen, a little mermaid magic and funny sisterly moments make it a solid watch. 

32. Barbie in Princess Power (2015)

This movie really takes girl power to a whole other level all while rocking a classic comic design and neon color scheme. Although not exactly on the same level as Marvel the original song Soaring is what gives this movie its superpowers. 

31. Barbie and her Sisters in the Great Puppy Adventure (2015)

Treasure hunts, adorable puppies ever and the best sister squad we know? Yes, please! The gorgeous setting and interesting plot make this movie charming...just not as charming as some of the OG films. 

30. Barbie: Spy Squad (2016)

We're pretty sure this movie is the entire reason we want to get colored highlights in our hair. This heist-style movie is fun and funky *and* it has its own original soundtrack. Unfortunately, the songs aren't quite rockin' enough to rank it higher. 

29. Barbie: Starlight Adventure (2016)

We could gush about the aesthetics and animation of this movie forever. Even if the plot feels a little cliche, the visuals, group of diverse characters and the Shooting Star song make the movie out of this world.

28. Barbie Video Game Hero (2017)

Quirky and adorable, this most recent Barbie movie,Video Game Hero is *seriously* underrated. Barbie is a girl who codes (women in STEM appreciation yes!) We thought this movie was quirky and adorable.

27. Barbie and the Secret Door (2014)

Princess Alexa is probably the most relatable character in the entire Barbie universe. A shy princess who just wants to read all day? Literally, that's us. The magical world behind the secret door is *so* whimsical but the villainous Maruca doesn't actually seem that evil. We also felt like the song I've Got Magic was played a few too many times. 

26. Barbie Princess and the Popstar (2012)

Here I Am is a certified bop that we want on all of our hype playlists. The rest of the movie, while fun, just feels like a watered-down version of the Barbie classic Princess and the Pauper.

25. Barbie: A Perfect Christmas (2011)

Making the best of whatever life throws your way is a message we can *definitely* stand behind. This very festive Barbie movie should always be a staple in your December and A Perfect Christmas is a heartwarming contender. 

24. Barbie and her Sisters in a Pony Tale (2013)

To be totally honest—We all had our own horse girl phase at some point so it's only fair that Barbie and her sisters have theirs too! This movie was an all-around fun watch. 

23. Barbie in the Nutcracker (2001)

As the first Barbie movie *ever,* this Barbie recreation of The Nutcracker has a special place in our hearts. Every moment was just like watching the original ballet and we always find ourselves coming back to this movie for some feel-good vibes. 

22. Barbie: Fairytopia (2005)

The first movie in the Fairytopia series, Elina is one of our favorite Barbie characters. She's brave and confident in herself—despite being different from the rest of her friends. Plus, our favorite puffball Bibble really stole the show.

21. Barbie Mariposa and her Butterfly Fairy Friends (2008)

Although the plotline is a little dry, Mariposa and Prince Carlos bonding over a love of reading and not being content with not being able to explore outside their little bubble is one of our favorite Barbie romances. 

20. Barbie Fairytopia: Mermaidia (2006)

The sequel to Barbie Fairytopia is even better than the first movie. We were extra thrilled to see Elina's new mermaid friend Nori end up with the mermaid prince at the end of the movie in a very welcome twist. 

19. Barbie Fairytopia: Magic of the Rainbow (2007)

You know what they say—The third time really is the charm. In this installment of the Fairytopia series, Elina is chosen to learn the magical ritual that brings about spring. The theme of friendship and teamwork really shines in this movie and makes the movie totally watchable with your besties.

18. Barbie Rock 'N Royals (2015)

Rock 'N Royals is basically Camp Rock 2 Barbie style...and we're not mad about it. The musical numbers are full of sparkle and the competition between Camp Royalty and Camp Pop is super fun to watch. 

17. Barbie in a Mermaid Tale (2010)

The surf princess turned mermaid princess Merliah is fun...but it's the villainous Eres that really makes this movie so engaging One of our favorite Barbie villains to date, she takes this movie up a notch. We also *love* all of the mermaid-themed puns hidden throughout the movie. 

16. Barbie: a Fairy Secret (2011)

A Fairy Secret is agreed to be one of the weirdest Barbie movies ever produced. But that's what really gives it its charm—It's so strange that it ends up being hilarious. Also, mean-girl Raquelle never fails to be a *fave* character of ours. 

15. Barbie: Mariposa and the Fairy Princess (2013)

Mariposa is back and her wings are bigger than ever. As she travels to the kingdom of the crystal fairies to bring together the two types of fairies that have hated each other for years, the movie explores themes of acceptance and understanding while delivering an absolutely amazing ballroom dance scene. 

14. Barbie in a Mermaid Tale 2 (2012)

Continuing the sequel-is-better-than-the-original trend, the introduction of Australian icon Kylie is a super interesting rival and later a great friend to Merliah. We loved watching their friendship blossom as they worked to save Merliah's mom. 

13. Barbie: the Pearl Princess (2013)

Pearl Princess is our favorite Barbie mermaid movie by far. The colors, musical numbers and stylist Barbie montage are some of our favorite scenes and both the villain and the plot of the movie were well thought out and executed. 

12. Barbie in a Christmas Carol (2008)

It's a total twist to see Barbie portraying the grumpy Scrooge, but we think her retelling of A Christmas Carol has just the right balance of humor and Christmas spirit. Don't be surprised if you find us watching the Barbie version instead of the original on Christmas Eve...

11. Barbie of Swan Lake (2003)

Okay, yes Barbie of Swan Lake has some of the worst animations of the Barbie films, but the music from the actual swan lake ballet and the *adorable* animal-inspired elves make the viewing experience just the most magical. 

10. Barbie and the Magic of Pegasus (2005)

A total fan favorite, Barbie and the Magic of Pegasus is the root of all our figure skating dreams. The iconic purple-and-pink color scheme is also one of the best aesthetics in the Barbie universe. Not to mention, the polar bear cub gives us major heart eyes!

9. Barbie in the Pink Shoes (2013)

Barbie in the Pink Shoes is an older Barbie movie that is so much better than we remembered—and we loved it in the first place! The two boys from the ballet world have some of the most comedic lines ever and Keep On Dancing is *such* a good song. Don't mind us, just adding hot pink ballet slippers to the shopping cart rn... 

8. Barbie: A Fashion Fairytale (2010)

One of the most fun *and* most fashionable Barbie movies, this Parisian dream of a film has a special, glittery place in our hearts. Every single one of Barbie's fits are serving looks and Glimmer, Shimmer and Shine are the sparkliest and sassiest fairies in town. 

7. Barbie Princess Charm School (2011)

The Selection series has nothing on this *classic* Barbie masterpiece. Blair is a loveable and hardworking main character and her roommates are spunky and fun. The uniform makeover scene lives rent-free in our brains 24/7, right next to the lyrics to You Can Tell She's a Princess.  

6. Barbie and the 12 Dancing Princesses (2006)

BRB, we're trying to find out where we can get our own magical dance pavilion. Derek the cobbler is a swoon-worthy love interest and the Barbie dolls from this movie were some of our all-time favorites. 

5. Barbie and the Diamond Castle (2008)

We feel connected to this movie and its role in our childhood. As they play music to save their new friend who's trapped in a magical mirror, Barbie and Theresa give us a soundtrack full of bangers that lands this movie a spot in the top five. 

4. Barbie as Rapunzel (2002)

Rapunzel painting her own dress montage. Need we say more? But seriously, switching up the classic role of the dragon to making Penelope into a best friend and the introduction of a magical paintbrush? Genius. 

3. Barbie and the Three Musketeers (2009)

The females protecting the prince for once? This is no damsel in distress movie and we are *so* here for it. Each of the musketeers has a unique talent and personality that we love. And who can say no to a masquerade ball? 

2. Barbie as the Island Princess (2007)

Barbie as the lost princess Rosella is simply perfect. Ro is sweet, caring and adventurous and her friendships with all the animals are so endearing. Prince Antonio is one of the best Barbie love interests and we love seeing him totally head over heels for Princess Ro. While we're gushing about our runner-up movie we have to mention some of the best songs in the Barbie universe, I Need to Know and Here On My Island. We can't stop ourselves from singing along to every track in the movie. 
 1. Barbie as the Princess and the Pauper (2004)

We don't think it's a surprise that the TikTok famous masterpiece Princess and the Pauper is the best Barbie movie *and* one of the best movies overall. Anneliese and Erika truly embody what strong female leads should be. While they don't need a man to be happy, their double wedding happy ending still makes us swoon. And we couldn't give this film first place without mentioning how every single iconic song on the soundtrack should probably win a Grammy. We're dead serious—once you watch the movie yourself, you'll 100% agree.

Loved this ranking? Check out our non-definitive ranking of every Disney princess movie!

Slider image: @duckbreadd

by Abigail Adams | 7/3/2021